After exploring one-of-a-kind destinations, Penn State alumnus Michael Killian took matters into his own hands by creating an ambition-based startup called “Wild Wear Company.”

At the beginning of Killian’s journey, he started out at a Penn State branch campus to play soccer and basketball. Residing in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania at the time, Penn State New Kensington was his main focus. It wasn’t until transferring to University Park he realized there was a lot to observe in the world.

Once Killian moved to a larger school and location, he discovered there was more depth to life than just receiving a degree. After graduating in 2016 with a degree in finance, he immediately secured a job. Even though he loved his position, living the same day-to-day routine left him craving purpose and inspiration.

This is where his brand-new business, “Wild Wear Company,” comes into play.

While backpacking in Spain with his sister in 2017, the idea of the company was born. Moving from hostel to hostel, Killian met people with unbelievable stories and personalized reasons for traveling. He started imagining a space where deep aspirations could live.

Fast forward to Killian experiencing “the most uncomfortable but exhilarating” open-water shark dive in Hawaii. He was finally determined to create a company that nudged people to keep living fearlessly while simultaneously giving back to wildlife charities.

“I thought, ‘How can I make something that embodies these feelings?’ Ask, ‘What makes you feel most alive, and how can you execute that?'” Killian said. “‘How can you encompass that feeling into a business, while still giving back [to wildlife funds]?'”

Killian knew it was time to put pen to paper and formally plan out the environment-based Wild Wear Company. Still working a full-time job, he was wary to create a meaningful company alone. In March 2021, he launched the official website.

Wild Wear Company’s mission is “to inspire people to break away from their desks, and chase their wild.” The company is “more than an online store, but a mindset.”

“When I was hiking in the Rocky Mountains, I was like, ‘This is it. I love waking up every day and wondering what I was going to do next,'” Killian said.

Because Killian’s passion is nature-based, the company’s advocacy is driven toward maintaining a healthy planet and reducing human impact on the environment. 10% of all proceeds are donated to the World Wildlife Fund..

Killian works his daytime job remotely. To his advantage, this allows him to travel month to month and produce first-hand content for the company’s socials and website.

He is traveling to Savannah, Georgia at the end of March. The Smoky Mountains and the Everglades are soon to follow, but he is always planning new destinations. His goal is to “take the company anywhere he goes.”

Another part of Wild Wear Company’s mission is to “create quality products encouraging you to do what you love.” Killian said it is an all-inclusive, write-your-own-narrative brand.

Even though Killian’s personal drive is the wilderness and nature, the company is set to reignite anyone’s dreams that got pushed aside, whether it is “video games or cooking.”

“Exploring is what I love to do. Don’t hold yourself back on whatever it is you love to do,” Killian said.

As Killian travels and produces content within this year, he has big plans for the company to continuously expand.

“We are currently looking for more products. I have a dog, so we are coming out soon with a product for your pets! Especially if you like taking them hiking with you,” Killian said.

He also said that more shirts, styles, and designs are in the works. Killian added that each product will represent people doing what makes them happy and never forget where their inspiration comes from.

“You are always going to find a reason not to do something,” Killian said. “If you have a passion, stop waiting for the perfect moment.”